The Lion Rampant was the     unofficial crest of Scotland 

The Scottish Clan system played a large role in creating and enhancing Scottish culture and traditions.  Over the course of Scottish history the Clan system has served many different purposes including the focal point of the family unit, political systems, territorial defence and a means of ensuring survival. The beginnings of the Scottish Clan system dates back to the 6th century, but became well established and recognized throughout the 11th and 12th century (www.scottish-at-heart.com). 

Today the Clans are viewed as vital to Scotland’s heritage, as they have given many people of Scottish descent their surnames therefore providing a great amount of family pride.  The Clans represent large tight knit family groups that highly valued the concept of family and honor to one another.  Each Clan would had a Clan Chief, who took the responsibility of looking after the people in his area (www.scotland.org.uk).  The original Clans of Scotland were seen as extended family groups, where the majority of the members were connected by blood, therefore descending from a common ancestor.  However, as more clans began to develop, other individuals who lived locally, not related would join simply for protection.  These individuals were known as ‘Septs’ meaning no family relation to the Clan Chief (www.scottish-at-heart.com).

The Clans dominated the Highlands of Scotland as well as other remote areas.  Each Clan was connected to a specific piece of land, known as “Clan territories”.  The reason for these territorial lands was to strengthen the relationships of the people in that area, to help in terms of protection from any possible invasions, or theft from other Clans (www.scottish-at-heart.com). 

Clansmen in battle 

                                                The different clan territories 

Each Clan of Scotland consisted of closely bound groups held together by blood and loyalty, which began to develop their own laws and traditions (www.scottish-at-heart.com).  The Clans are known to be tough and resilient just like the people of Scotland.  Throughout centuries they have been able to thrive through bloody battles, as well as survive many attempts to destroy the system.  However conflict among Clans was common and these rivalries were often passed down through generations.  Consequently, many battles were fought over Clan territory. Most Highlanders felt a great sense of alliance to their Clan first, and country second and this resulted in the Clan system being characterized by ongoing feuds.  The power of the Chief was the ability  to call on his clansmen to fight in the Clan’s army, whenever needed (www.scotland.org.uk).

Today in Scotland Clans are legally recognized groups.  Scottish law sees them as ‘corporate identity’.  A Clan is considered Chief’s heritable property, it is legally owned by the Chief and he is responsible for the care and development of the land. 
(www.scottish-at-heart.com)